Beach Hazards Statement issued August 1 at 7:09PM EDT until August 3 at 2:00AM EDT by NWS Grand Rapids MI
Dangerous nearshore water (rip currents / structural currents) — the score takes a safety penalty. Keep swimmers out of the water near the piers.
Pere Marquette Lake conditions
Glassy — great for any small boat, paddleboard, kayak, or a ski.
The deep harbor lake behind the breakwaters — protected water for the marinas, paddling, and small boats when Lake Michigan is working.
The channel is shared with the SS Badger carferry and charter traffic — big wakes and limited room in the cut. High Pere Marquette River flow adds a seaward push after heavy rain.
Live outflow: 496 cfs (Pere Marquette River) — higher outflow means a stronger seaward current in the channel, roughest against an onshore wind.
A nearshore swim advisory is active — check local guidance before getting in. No active bloom or swim advisory reported for the lake right now.
From NWS beach-hazards / swim-risk statements for this shoreline.